RBC Capital analysts maintained a Sector Perform rating on General Mills (NYSE:GIS) with a $70 price target, highlighting ongoing challenges in the packaged food industry that could weigh on the company’s near-term performance.
Retailer inventory fluctuations, weak signals from competitors, and broader economic and political uncertainty continue to create a difficult operating environment for General Mills. In light of these pressures, RBC revised its third-quarter (scheduled to be released on March 19) organic growth forecast downward to -3.1%, compared to the consensus estimate of -2.7%. Earnings per share projections remain at $0.96, aligning with market expectations.
With a soft quarter anticipated, RBC suggests full-year organic growth guidance may be revised lower, with earnings likely to hover near the lower end of the current forecast range. The firm expects General Mills to reinforce its cautious outlook, acknowledging the persistent headwinds in the packaged food sector.
While General Mills remains a steady player in the industry, near-term performance is likely to be constrained as consumer uncertainty and market volatility continue to impact demand.